XL1S vs. JVC GY-DV550U Pro and GY-DV5000?
 

Hi, I was wondering how the GY-DV550U Pro and GY-DV5000 cameras compared to the XL1S. I'm looking for a new camera as Canon has screwed us all on the absence of anything relating to the XL2 at NAB <=P. So I figure that getting an XL1S would be the most useful for me as I already have a GL1 (which I bought a few months before the announcement of the GL2 >=X LOL =D!), but I can't help but notice the GY-DV550 and 5000 cameras being better with their low light capabilities, XLR inputs, LCD screens (DV5000 only I believe), hard drive recording, similar price (after lenses and accessories), and somewhat interchangeable lense system. But you see, I'm also planning on getting the P+S Technik 35mm adapter as well, so which camera would be best for film blowup and just all around better looking video? I don't really need frame mode as that is bad for blowup stuff, so don't even mention that.

Deciding would depend on how much money you want to spend? Or going with the right cam for the right job/s? Which one you like best?

I don't understand what you're trying to say there, but I'm looking for something to make indie films with.

I'm sure they are all good for making "Indie films." Which cam seems right for you?

Hey Jack
If you think the cameras are in the same price category, you are grossly underestimating the cost of accessories for the DV5000.
Because it is a substantialy heavier camera, you will need a heftier tripod than you would for the XL1. Plus, I think the only lens for the Dv5000 that costs less than $3000 is the Fujinon 14x that most places package with it. A WA adapter for that will probably cost more than the entire 3x lens for the XL1s.
Plus the batteries and charger don't come with a DV5000, you have to buy them seperatly, and we aren't talking $60 a pop on Ebay. Budget an extra $800+ for a set of batteries and charger.
I'd figure a complete XL1s package would be in the $4000 range (with tripod, bag, extra batteries) but I'd put the DV5000 at (are the DV5000's selling for around $5000 with lens now?) at least $7000.

Which camera is better? Bigger chips in the DV5000 win out over the XL1s, if you can afford it, go for it!

However, the best indie film camera is probably the DVX100.

PS, I hope you are joking about Canon screwing us over at NAB. They specificaly said they were not releasing a new camera, so if you are dissapointed, it sure isn't their fault.

Well that's just what I get from reading other's thoughts on the lack of an XL2. But anyway, thanks for clearing that up for me ^_^ !

Another thing to remember Jack is not many systems out there have interchangeable lenses. The XLs, for now, offer a real bang for your buck in this arena.

Still bigger image arrays win out on most systems...they just co$t more.

Jack,

I am VERY happy with my DV5000, but I have to admit I could have bought two XL1S for what I paid for my DV5000 and accessories.

Personally, I think the DVX100A is the best prosumer camera right now.

I am thinking about getting a JVC HD10U, but the HD10U requires extra work.

Dustin, what did your DV5000 camera package end up costing total? I thought about buying one, but when the costs started to really add up I backed off and stuck with the XL1.

About $6,500 for camera, lens, viewfinder, two batteries, and a charger.

Vinten tripod, mattebox, follow focus, and a few filters was about another $4,000.

Thanks Dustin. Looks like my guesstimate was just about right on.

Hi Jack,
If you're still following this post, here's my 2 cents. I own both an xl1s and the gy-dv5000. The picture quality is better in the 5000 without a doubt, especially in low light. The XL1s has a soft focus with the lenses that comes with it. For any serious work you'll need to change the lenses. I got the 16x manual zoom and it's a great improvement on exact focusing. The XL1s has maybe slightly warmer colors with a lean towards reddish. A good white balance is a must. Overall, if price is no object the 5000 is the better machine. It's heavy and the accessories are expensive but it does a fine job. The XL1s isn't bad either.

See ya'
Andy

Just to share some little thought, Budget = Cam, More budget = better Cam...
My Setup: XL1-s, MA200, CH910 w 2 x 945 Batts, Work great!!!!